FADE IN: INTERIOR COURTHOUSE. We are in a small room used for prisoner-lawyer interviews. A guard sits at a desk behind STEVE.

Question

KATHY O'BRIEN, STEVE’S lawyer, is petite, red-haired, and freckled. She is all business as she talks to STEVE.

O’BRIEN

Let me make sure you understand what’s going on. Both you and this King character are on trial for felony murder. Felony murder is as serious as it gets. Sandra Petrocelli is the prosecutor, and she’s good. They’re pushing for the death penalty, which is really bad. The jury might think they’re doing you a big favor by giving you life in prison. So you’d better take this trial very, very seriously.

When you’re in court, you sit there and you pay attention. You let the jury know that you think the case is as serious as they do. You don’t turn and wave to any of your friends. It’s all right to acknowledge your mother.

I have to go and talk to the judge. The trial will begin in a few minutes. Is there anything you want to ask me before it starts?

STEVE

You think we’re going to win?

O’BRIEN (seriously)

It probably depends on what you mean by “win.”

—Monster,
Walter Dean Myers

Read this passage. In a paragraph, explain what the reader can tell about Mrs. O’Brien’s feelings toward Steve based on how they speak to each other.

Answer 1

Mrs. O'Brien’s feelings toward Steve are a mix of professionalism and concern, as evidenced by her straightforward and serious manner of speaking. She is clear about the gravity of the situation, using direct language to ensure Steve comprehends the severity of the charges against him and the potential consequences. This indicates that she cares about his understanding and preparation for the trial, suggesting a level of investment in his well-being. Despite the seriousness, her willingness to answer his question about winning implies a degree of rapport, allowing for a moment of vulnerability in an otherwise tense context. Overall, O’Brien embodies a protective yet pragmatic approach, indicating she feels responsible for guiding Steve through the complexities of the legal system while also recognizing the emotional weight of the situation.